What To Expect During A Sports Massage

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A sports massage is a type of therapeutic massage specifically designed to help athletes prepare for and recover from training and competition. It can also benefit non-athletes who engage in regular physical activity. Here's what you can expect before, during, and after a sports massage:

Before the Massage

  • Consultation: The therapist will ask about your medical history, current injuries, physical activity level, and areas of tension or discomfort.

  • Goal Setting: You’ll discuss your goals—whether it’s recovery, injury prevention, improving flexibility, or prepping for an event.

During the Massage

  • Technique Variety: The therapist may use a combination of techniques, such as:

    • Effleurage: Light strokes to warm up the muscles.

    • Petrissage: Kneading to loosen tight muscles and improve circulation.

    • Deep tissue work: Targets deeper muscle layers and fascia to relieve chronic tension.

    • Trigger point therapy: Focuses on specific points that refer pain to other areas.

    • Stretching: Passive or active stretching to improve flexibility.

  • Intensity: Sports massage can be intense and sometimes uncomfortable, especially when addressing tight knots or trigger points. However, it should not be unbearably painful. Always communicate your pain tolerance.

  • Focus Areas: The therapist will concentrate on muscles most used in your sport or activity, or areas you've identified as problematic.

  • Clothing: You may be partially clothed (e.g., in athletic shorts or undergarments), and areas not being worked on will be covered.

After the Massage

  • Post-Massage Soreness: Mild soreness is normal, especially if deeper techniques were used.

  • Hydration: Drink water to help flush out toxins released during the massage.

  • Rest and Recovery: Give your body time to rest, especially if the massage was intense.

  • Improved Range of Motion: You may notice better mobility, less stiffness, and improved circulation.

Frequency

  • Pre-event: Shorter, more stimulating massage to warm up the muscles.

  • Post-event: Longer, more soothing massage to aid recovery.

  • Maintenance: Regular sessions can prevent injuries and promote ongoing muscle health.



    JMP has a wonderful team of massage therapists with a range of certifications in many different modalities. From sports massage, lomi lomi, and even manual lymphatic drainage, we have it all! 



    Jupiter Massage and Pilates LLC

    561-529-2093
    www.jupitermassageandpilates.com
    125 W. Indiantown Road Suite#102 Jupiter, FL 33458 

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